RYA – The Gold Standard
RYA is the gold standard qualification of yachting which is why we adhere to their code of practise and ensure you get the best training in the most wonderful surroundings of the Balearic Islands. The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence is recognised and respected around the world. An RYA Yachtmaster needs a wealth of knowledge, not only to cope with plain sailing or motor cruising but also to be able to cope in demanding situations. An RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence as a skipper. Unlike other courses in the cruising programme, there is no formal training to complete in order to become a Yachtmaster. Instead, provided that you have sufficient experience and sea time, you can put yourself forward for an exam to test your skills and knowledge. Most Yachtmaster candidates choose to book themselves into an RYA training centre for some tailor-made tuition to prepare them for the exam. This is not compulsory but if you have not previously undertaken any formal training it is unlikely that you will pass the exam.
A range of Yachtmaster courses
- Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Course – This six-day Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Course is advanced training for more experienced skippers wanting to learn how to navigate safely on coastal and offshore passages. The course starts with a revision of the basics in navigation theory and quickly moves on to advanced navigation, meteorology, collision avoidance, safety at sea and passage planning. This course provides theory knowledge to the standard required for the Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.
- Yachtmaster Offshore Exam Prep – The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence is a highly regarded worldwide qualification proving the experience and competence of a skipper. Sufficient experience and sea time form the eligibility criteria for taking the Yachtmaster exam. The Yachtmaster offshore sail/motor exam preparation week provides five days practical boat handling and revision of the theory with all aspects of the examination organized.
- Yachtmaster conversion – Holders of the Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore sail Certificate of Competence may take a practical conversion exam to obtain the equivalent power certificate of competence. Candidates may also convert from power to sail.
- Yachtmaster Ocean Theory – This advanced course is for those aspiring to blue water cruising and is ideal for holders of the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate who are preparing for their first ocean passage. This course involves astro-navigation, ocean passage making, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids – it also includes time learning the practical application of a sextant.